Covered endoprosthesis with improved branch access

ABSTRACT

An endoprosthesis may include an expandable framework including an anchoring portion and a body portion extending axially from the anchoring portion, the body portion having a plurality of body cells; and a polymeric cover disposed on at least a portion of the expandable framework. The anchoring portion includes a first transverse flange and a second transverse flange proximate the first transverse flange, the first and second transverse flanges being configured to secure the anchoring portion at an orifice of a body lumen. The body portion includes a window through a side of the body portion, the window occupying space equivalent to at least two of the plurality of body cells. The window is devoid of the polymeric cover and any other structure within a perimeter of the window.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. § 119 ofU.S. Provisional Application No. 62/862,599 filed Jun. 17, 2019, theentire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure pertains to medical devices, and methods formanufacturing and/or using medical devices. More particularly, thepresent disclosure pertains to an improved design for an endoprosthesisor stent.

BACKGROUND

One currently known and/or recommended treatment for relief of biliaryblockage in the biliary tree is the placement of a coveredendoprosthesis or stent within the restricted body lumen (e.g., the bileduct, the pancreatic duct, etc.), such as that caused by a strictureformation. For example, it may be necessary to open the body lumen(e.g., the bile duct, the pancreatic duct, etc.) to permit passing ofbile and stone-related debris to relieve acute painful symptoms.Uncovered metallic endoprostheses or stents are sometimes placed forchronic conditions but are generally not removable. Plasticendoprostheses or stents may be prone to blockage which may requirerepeat treatment(s) and are sometimes unable to open the stricture thatinitially caused the blockage of the affected body lumen (e.g., the bileduct, the pancreatic duct, etc.). Additionally, the biliary tree hasseveral branches, bifurcations, and/or adjoining lumens. Placement of acovered endoprosthesis or stent across a bifurcation and/or an openingof an adjacent branch or lumen to treat a stricture or blocked bodylumen may result in additional blockage of a currently open orunrestricted lumen, which may be undesirable. There is an ongoing needto provide alternative endoprostheses or stents as well as alternativemethods for manufacturing and using endoprostheses or stents.

SUMMARY

In a first aspect, an endoprosthesis may comprise an expandableframework including an anchoring portion and a body portion extendingaxially from the anchoring portion, the body portion having a pluralityof body cells; and a polymeric cover disposed on at least a portion ofthe expandable framework. The anchoring portion may include a firsttransverse flange and a second transverse flange proximate the firsttransverse flange, the first and second transverse flanges beingconfigured to secure the anchoring portion at an orifice of a bodylumen. The body portion may include a window through a side of the bodyportion, the window occupying space equivalent to at least two of theplurality of body cells. The window may be devoid of the polymeric coverand any other structure within a perimeter of the window.

In addition or alternatively, the first transverse flange and the secondtransverse flange are axially spaced apart.

In addition or alternatively, the body portion is braided or woven.

In addition or alternatively, the body portion includes one or morefilaments interwoven around a central longitudinal axis of theexpandable framework.

In addition or alternatively, the window is formed by removing at leasta portion of the one or more filaments.

In addition or alternatively, the perimeter of the window is at leastpartially defined by a plurality of welds joining the one or morefilaments together.

In addition or alternatively, the window is positioned adjacent theanchoring portion.

In addition or alternatively, the body portion is configured to dilatethe body lumen.

In addition or alternatively, a first body portion opposite the windowrelative to a central longitudinal axis of the expandable framework isconfigured to exert less radially outward force on the body lumen than asecond body portion opposite the anchoring portion relative to thewindow.

In addition or alternatively, an endoprosthesis for maintaining patencyof a body lumen may comprise an expandable framework including ananchoring portion, a body portion having a plurality of body cells, anda linking portion extending axially from the anchoring portion to thebody portion; and a polymeric cover disposed on at least a portion ofthe expandable framework. The anchoring portion may include a firsttransverse flange and a second transverse flange proximate the firsttransverse flange, the first and second transverse flanges beingconfigured to secure the anchoring portion at an orifice of a bodylumen. The linking portion may include a plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts spacing the body portion from theanchoring portion, the linking portion being devoid of the polymericcover.

In addition or alternatively, the body portion is coaxial with theanchoring portion.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally-orientedstruts is parallel to a central longitudinal axis of the expandableframework.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally-orientedstruts is axially longer than the anchoring portion.

In addition or alternatively, the body portion includes a flared endopposite the anchoring portion.

In addition or alternatively, the expandable framework further includesa tapered flange extending axially away from the anchoring portion andradially outward from the linking portion.

In addition or alternatively, an endoprosthesis for maintaining patencyof a vessel lumen may comprise an expandable framework including a firstbraided portion, a second braided portion, and a linking portionextending axially from the first braided portion to the second braidedportion; and a polymeric cover disposed on at least a portion of theexpandable framework. The linking portion may include a plurality oflongitudinally-extending struts spacing the first braided portion fromthe second braided portion, the linking portion being devoid of thepolymeric cover.

In addition or alternatively, when deployed, the linking portion exertsless radially outward force upon the vessel lumen than the first braidedportion and the second braided portion.

In addition or alternatively, the plurality of longitudinally-extendingstruts is angled inward toward a central longitudinal axis of theexpandable framework between the first braided portion and the secondbraided portion.

In addition or alternatively, each of the plurality oflongitudinally-extending struts includes a coiled portion extendingbetween the first braided portion and the second braided portion.

In addition or alternatively, an axial length of the linking portion isvariable.

The above summary of some embodiments, aspects, and/or examples is notintended to describe each disclosed embodiment or every implementationof the present disclosure. The Figures, and Detailed Description, whichfollow, more particularly exemplify these embodiments.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The disclosure may be more completely understood in consideration of thefollowing detailed description in connection with the accompanyingdrawings, in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates aspects of a patient's biliary tree;

FIG. 2 illustrates aspects of an example endoprosthesis;

FIG. 3 illustrates the example endoprosthesis of FIG. 2 including apolymeric cover;

FIG. 4 illustrates an alternative construction of the exampleendoprosthesis of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 illustrates an example placement of the endoprosthesis of FIGS.2-4 in the patient's biliary tree;

FIG. 6 illustrates an example placement of the endoprosthesis of FIGS.2-4 in the patient's biliary tree;

FIG. 7 illustrates aspects of an example endoprosthesis;

FIG. 8 illustrates the example endoprosthesis of FIG. 7 including apolymeric cover;

FIG. 9 illustrates an example placement of the endoprosthesis of FIGS.7-8 in the patient's biliary tree;

FIG. 10 illustrates an example placement of the endoprosthesis of FIGS.7-8 in the patient's biliary tree;

FIG. 11 illustrates aspects of an example endoprosthesis;

FIG. 12 illustrates aspects of an example endoprosthesis;

FIG. 13 illustrates aspects of an example endoprosthesis;

FIG. 14 illustrates an alternative construction of the exampleendoprosthesis of FIG. 13;

FIG. 15 illustrates an alternative construction of the exampleendoprosthesis of FIG. 13 in a longitudinally compressed configuration;

FIG. 16 illustrates the example endoprosthesis of FIG. 15 in alongitudinally extended configuration;

FIG. 17 illustrates an example placement of the endoprosthesis of FIGS.13-16 in the patient's biliary tree; and

FIG. 18 illustrates an example mandrel usable in a method ofmanufacturing one or more of the endoprostheses of the disclosure.

While aspects of the disclosure are amenable to various modificationsand alternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way ofexample in the drawings and will be described in detail. It should beunderstood, however, that the intention is not to limit aspects of thedisclosure to the particular embodiments described. On the contrary, theintention is to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternativesfalling within the spirit and scope of the disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The following description should be read with reference to the drawings,which are not necessarily to scale, wherein like reference numeralsindicate like elements throughout the several views. The detaileddescription and drawings are intended to illustrate but not limit theclaimed invention. Those skilled in the art will recognize that thevarious elements described and/or shown may be arranged in variouscombinations and configurations without departing from the scope of thedisclosure. The detailed description and drawings illustrate exampleembodiments of the claimed invention.

For the following defined terms, these definitions shall be applied,unless a different definition is given in the claims or elsewhere inthis specification.

All numeric values are herein assumed to be modified by the term“about,” whether or not explicitly indicated. The term “about”, in thecontext of numeric values, generally refers to a range of numbers thatone of skill in the art would consider equivalent to the recited value(e.g., having the same function or result). In many instances, the term“about” may include numbers that are rounded to the nearest significantfigure. Other uses of the term “about” (e.g., in a context other thannumeric values) may be assumed to have their ordinary and customarydefinition(s), as understood from and consistent with the context of thespecification, unless otherwise specified.

The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numberswithin that range, including the endpoints (e.g., 1 to 5 includes 1,1.5, 2, 2.75, 3, 3.80, 4, and 5).

Although some suitable dimensions, ranges, and/or values pertaining tovarious components, features and/or specifications are disclosed, one ofskill in the art, incited by the present disclosure, would understanddesired dimensions, ranges, and/or values may deviate from thoseexpressly disclosed.

As used in this specification and the appended claims, the singularforms “a”, “an”, and “the” include plural referents unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise. As used in this specification and theappended claims, the term “or” is generally employed in its senseincluding “and/or” unless the content clearly dictates otherwise. It isto be noted that in order to facilitate understanding, certain featuresof the disclosure may be described in the singular, even though thosefeatures may be plural or recurring within the disclosed embodiment(s).Each instance of the features may include and/or be encompassed by thesingular disclosure(s), unless expressly stated to the contrary. Forsimplicity and clarity purposes, not all elements of the disclosedinvention are necessarily shown in each figure or discussed in detailbelow. However, it will be understood that the following discussion mayapply equally to any and/or all of the components for which there aremore than one, unless explicitly stated to the contrary. Additionally,not all instances of some elements or features may be shown in eachfigure for clarity.

Relative terms such as “proximal”, “distal”, “advance”, “retract”,variants thereof, and the like, may be generally considered with respectto the positioning, direction, and/or operation of various elementsrelative to a user/operator/manipulator of the device, wherein“proximal” and “retract” indicate or refer to closer to or toward theuser and “distal” and “advance” indicate or refer to farther from oraway from the user. In some instances, the terms “proximal” and “distal”may be arbitrarily assigned in an effort to facilitate understanding ofthe disclosure, and such instances will be readily apparent to theskilled artisan. Other relative terms, such as “upstream”, “downstream”,“inflow”, and “outflow” refer to a direction of fluid flow within alumen, such as a body lumen, a blood vessel, or within a device. Stillother relative terms, such as “axial”, “circumferential”,“longitudinal”, “lateral”, “radial”, etc. and/or variants thereofgenerally refer to direction and/or orientation relative to a centrallongitudinal axis of the disclosed structure or device.

The term “extent” may be understood to mean a greatest measurement of astated or identified dimension, unless the extent or dimension inquestion is preceded by or identified as a “minimum”, which may beunderstood to mean a smallest measurement of the stated or identifieddimension. For example, “outer extent” may be understood to mean anouter dimension, “radial extent” may be understood to mean a radialdimension, “longitudinal extent” may be understood to mean alongitudinal dimension, etc. Each instance of an “extent” may bedifferent (e.g., axial, longitudinal, lateral, radial, circumferential,etc.) and will be apparent to the skilled person from the context of theindividual usage. Generally, an “extent” may be considered a greatestpossible dimension measured according to the intended usage, while a“minimum extent” may be considered a smallest possible dimensionmeasured according to the intended usage. In some instances, an “extent”may generally be measured orthogonally within a plane and/orcross-section, but may be, as will be apparent from the particularcontext, measured differently—such as, but not limited to, angularly,radially, circumferentially (e.g., along an arc), etc.

The terms “monolithic” and “unitary” shall generally refer to an elementor elements made from or consisting of a single structure or baseunit/element. A monolithic and/or unitary element shall excludestructure and/or features made by assembling or otherwise joiningmultiple discrete structures or elements together.

It is noted that references in the specification to “an embodiment”,“some embodiments”, “other embodiments”, etc., indicate that theembodiment(s) described may include a particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic, but every embodiment may not necessarily include theparticular feature, structure, or characteristic. Moreover, such phrasesare not necessarily referring to the same embodiment. Further, when aparticular feature, structure, or characteristic is described inconnection with an embodiment, it would be within the knowledge of oneskilled in the art to implement the particular feature, structure, orcharacteristic in connection with other embodiments, whether or notexplicitly described, unless clearly stated to the contrary. That is,the various individual elements described below, even if not explicitlyshown in a particular combination, are nevertheless contemplated asbeing combinable or arrangeable with each other to form other additionalembodiments or to complement and/or enrich the described embodiment(s),as would be understood by one of ordinary skill in the art.

For the purpose of clarity, certain identifying numerical nomenclature(e.g., first, second, third, fourth, etc.) may be used throughout thedescription and/or claims to name and/or differentiate between variousdescribed and/or claimed features. It is to be understood that thenumerical nomenclature is not intended to be limiting and is exemplaryonly. In some embodiments, alterations of and deviations frompreviously-used numerical nomenclature may be made in the interest ofbrevity and clarity. That is, a feature identified as a “first” elementmay later be referred to as a “second” element, a “third” element, etc.or may be omitted entirely, and/or a different feature may be referredto as the “first” element. The meaning and/or designation in eachinstance will be apparent to the skilled practitioner.

The figures illustrate selected components and/or arrangements of anendoprosthesis or stent. It should be noted that in any given figure,some features of the endoprosthesis or stent may not be shown, or may beshown schematically, for simplicity. Additional details regarding someof the components of the endoprosthesis or stent may be illustrated inother figures in greater detail. It is to be noted that in order tofacilitate understanding, certain features of the disclosure may bedescribed in the singular, even though those features may be plural orrecurring within the disclosed embodiment(s). Each instance of thefeatures may include and/or be encompassed by the singulardisclosure(s), unless expressly stated to the contrary. For example, areference to “the filament”, “the cell”, “the strut”, or other featuresmay be equally referred to all instances and quantities beyond one ofsaid feature. As such, it will be understood that the followingdiscussion may apply equally to any and/or all of the components forwhich there are more than one within the endoprosthesis or stent, unlessexplicitly stated to the contrary. Additionally, not all instances ofsome elements or features may be shown in each figure for clarity.

FIG. 1 illustrates selected features and relative positioning of apatient's anatomy related to the biliary tree, including the liver 10,the left hepatic duct 12, the right hepatic duct 14, the stomach 20, thegallbladder 30, the cystic duct 32, the common bile duct 34, thepancreas 40, the pancreatic duct 42, the duodenum 50 (shown partiallycut away), the papilla of Vater 52, and the ampulla of Vater 54. In somepatients, a stricture 60 may form or develop that may partially orcompletely block a body lumen such as the common bile duct 34, thepancreatic duct 42, etc.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example endoprosthesis 100 (which term may be usedinterchangeably with the term “stent” herein) comprising an expandableframework including an anchoring portion 120 and a body portion 140extending axially from the anchoring portion 120 along a centrallongitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandableframework. The endoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandable framework may beconfigured to shift between a delivery configuration and a deployedconfiguration. The delivery configuration may be axially elongatedand/or radially collapsed or compressed compared to the deployedconfiguration. The deployed configuration may be axially shortenedand/or radially expanded compared to the delivery configuration. In atleast some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandableframework may be self-expandable. For example, the endoprosthesis 100and/or the expandable framework may be formed from a shape memorymaterial. In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100 and/or theexpandable framework may be mechanically expandable. For example, theendoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandable framework may be expandableusing an inflatable balloon, using an actuation member, or othersuitable means. During delivery to a treatment site, the endoprosthesis100 and/or the expandable framework may be disposed within a lumen of adelivery sheath in the delivery configuration. Upon removal from thelumen of the delivery sheath, the endoprosthesis 100 and/or theexpandable framework may be shifted to the deployed configuration.

As seen in the deployed configuration illustrated in FIG. 2, theanchoring portion 120 may have a plurality of anchoring cells 122. Theanchoring portion 120 may include one or more filaments 124 interwovenaround the central longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 100 and/orthe expandable framework. The one or more filaments 124 of the anchoringportion 120 may form and/or define the plurality of anchoring cells 122.In the deployed configuration, the anchoring portion 120 may include afirst transverse flange 132 and a second transverse flange 134 proximatethe first transverse flange 132. The anchoring portion 120 may besubstantially tubular and/or may include a lumen extending axiallythrough the anchoring portion 120. The first transverse flange 132 andthe second transverse flange 134 may be axially spaced apart by a saddleportion 136. In some embodiments, the saddle portion 136 maysubstantially define the lumen extending axially through the anchoringportion 120.

In some embodiments, the first transverse flange 132 and/or the secondtransverse flange 134 may each have an axial thickness FT or axialextent of about 0.5 millimeters to about 3 millimeters, about 1millimeter to about 2 millimeters, or another suitable range. In someembodiments, the first transverse flange 132 and/or the secondtransverse flange 134 may each have a radial outer dimension FD orradial extent of about 15 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, about 17millimeters to about 24 millimeters, about 18 millimeters to about 20millimeters, or another suitable range. In some embodiments, the saddleportion 136 may have an axial length SL of about 2 millimeters to about18 millimeters, about 5 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, about 8millimeters to about 12 millimeters, or another suitable range. In someembodiments, the saddle portion 136 may have a radial outer dimension SDor radial extent of about 2 millimeters to about 18 millimeters, about 4millimeters to about 16 millimeters, about 8 millimeters to about 15millimeters, or another suitable range. Other configurations are alsocontemplated.

The body portion 140 may have a plurality of body cells 142. The bodyportion 140 may include one or more filaments 144 interwoven around thecentral longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 100 and/or theexpandable framework. In at least some embodiments, the body portion 140may be coaxial with the anchoring portion 120. The one or more filaments144 of the body portion 140 may form and/or define the plurality of bodycells 142. The body portion 140 may be substantially tubular and/or mayinclude a lumen extending axially through the body portion 140. The bodyportion 140 and/or the one or more filaments 144 interwoven around thecentral longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 100 and/or theexpandable framework may define the lumen extending axially through thebody portion 140. In at least some embodiments, the lumen extendingaxially through the body portion 140 may be aligned with, may be coaxialwith, and/or may intersect with the lumen extending axially through theanchoring portion 120 to define a single lumen extending axially throughthe endoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandable framework.

In some embodiments, the body portion 140 may have an axial length BL ofabout 40 millimeters to about 150 millimeters, about 50 millimeters toabout 135 millimeters, about 60 millimeters to about 120 millimeters,about 80 millimeters to about 100 millimeters, or another suitablerange. In some embodiments, the body portion 140 may have a radial outerdimension BD or radial extent of about 5 millimeters to about 18millimeters, about 6 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, about 8millimeters to about 12 millimeters, or another suitable range. Otherconfigurations are also contemplated.

In at least some embodiments, the anchoring portion 120 may be braidedor woven from the one or more filaments 124. In at least someembodiments, the body portion 140 may be braided or woven from the oneor more filaments 144. Other configurations for the anchoring portion120 and/or the body portion 140 are also contemplated. In someembodiments, the anchoring portion 120 may have a denser configurationof filaments and/or smaller cells than the body portion 140. In someembodiments, the one or more filaments 124 of the anchoring portion 120may have a smaller filament diameter or outer extent than the one ormore filaments 144 of the body portion 140. In some embodiments, theanchoring portion 120 and the body portion 140 may be integrally formedas a unitary and/or monolithic structure. In some embodiments, theanchoring portion 120 and the body portion 140 may be separately formedand later joined and/or fixedly attached together, such as by welding,adhesive bonding, mechanical fixation, or other suitable means. In someembodiments, the one or more filaments 124 of the anchoring portion 120may be the one or more filaments 144 of the body portion 140, or viceversa. For example, the entire endoprosthesis 100 and/or expandableframework may be formed from the same one or more filaments braidedand/or interwoven together continuously as a single monolithicstructure. Some suitable but non-limiting materials for theendoprosthesis 100, and/or components or elements thereof, for examplemetallic materials and/or polymeric materials, are described below.

In some embodiments, the body portion 140 may include a window 150through a side and/or side wall of the body portion 140. The window 150may be positioned adjacent the anchoring portion 120. In someembodiments, the body portion 140 may include a first body portion 146opposite the window 150 relative to the central longitudinal axis of theendoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandable framework. In some embodiments,the body portion 140 may include a second body portion 148 opposite theanchoring portion 120 relative to the window 150.

In at least some embodiments, the window 150 may be formed by removingat least a portion of the one or more filaments 144 of the body portion140. For example, the window 150 may be formed by cutting the one ormore filaments 144 of the body portion 140. In some embodiments, thewindow 150 may occupy space equivalent to at least two of the pluralityof body cells 142. In some embodiments, the window 150 may occupy spaceequivalent to at least 10 or more, at least 15 or more, at least 20 ormore, etc. of the plurality of body cells 142. Other configurations arealso contemplated. In some embodiments, the one or more filaments 144may define a perimeter 152 of the window 150, wherein the one or morefilaments 144 surround the window 150. In some embodiments, theperimeter 152 of the window 150 is at least partially defined by aplurality of welds 154 joining the one or more filaments 144 of the bodyportion 140 together. In some embodiments, the one or more filaments 144of the body portion 140 may be welded or otherwise joined together priorto cutting the one or more filaments 144 of the body portion 140 to formthe window 150. In some embodiments, welding the one or more filaments144 of the body portion 140 together may also and/or simultaneously cutthe one or more filaments 144 of the body portion 140 thereby formingthe perimeter 152 of the window 150.

In some embodiments, the window 150 may have an axial length WL of about15 to about 50 millimeters, about 20 to about 35 millimeters, or anothersuitable range. In some embodiments, the window 150 may have acircumferential opening dimension of about 20%, about 30%, about 40%,about 50%, about 60%, or about 70% of an overall circumference of thebody portion 140. For example, in some embodiments, the circumferentialopening dimension of the window 150 may be from about 40% to about 60%of the overall circumference of the body portion 140. Otherconfigurations are also contemplated.

In some embodiments, the body portion 140 may include a flared endopposite the anchoring portion 120. In some embodiments, the flared endof the body portion 140 opposite the anchoring portion 120 may have agreater outer diameter and/or outer extent than a remainder of the bodyportion 140. In at least some embodiments, the flared end of the bodyportion 140 opposite the anchoring portion 120 may have an outerdiameter and/or outer extent that is less than the radial outerdimension FD or radial extent of the first transverse flange 132 and/orthe second transverse flange 134 of the anchoring portion 120.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the flared end of the body portion140 opposite the anchoring portion 120 may have an outer diameter and/orouter extent that is greater than and/or similar to the radial outerdimension FD or radial extent of the first transverse flange 132 and/orthe second transverse flange 134 of the anchoring portion 120.

As seen in FIG. 3, the endoprosthesis 100 may include a polymeric cover160 disposed on at least a portion of the expandable framework. In someembodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may be disposed on the anchoringportion 120. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may bedisposed on the body portion 140. In some embodiments, the polymericcover 160 may be disposed on both the anchoring portion 120 and the bodyportion 140. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may bedisposed on and/or along an outer surface of the expandable framework.In some embodiments, the expandable framework (e.g., the anchoringportion 120 and/or the body portion 140) may be embedded in thepolymeric cover 160. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may befixedly or releasably secured to, bonded to, or otherwise attached toexpandable framework (e.g., the anchoring portion 120 and/or the bodyportion 140). In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may furtherjoin and/or fixedly attached the body portion 140 to the anchoringportion 120. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 alone may joinand/or fixedly attached the body portion 140 to the anchoring portion120.

In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may be impermeable tofluids, debris, medical instruments, etc. The window 150 may be devoidof the polymeric cover 160 and any other structure within the perimeter152 of the window 150. As such, the window 150 may be configured topermit unobstructed passage of fluids, debris, medical instruments, etc.through the side and/or side wall of the body portion 140 of theendoprosthesis 100 and/or the expandable framework within the perimeter152 of the window 150. In some embodiments, the perimeter 152 of thewindow 150 is at least partially defined by one or more edges 162 of thepolymeric cover 160. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may becoincident with and/or may align with the one or more filaments 144 ofthe body portion 140 defining the perimeter 152 of the window 150. Insome embodiments, the one or more edges 162 of the polymeric cover 160may terminate at the one or more filaments 144 of the body portion 140defining the perimeter 152 of the window 150. In some embodiments, theone or more edges 162 of the polymeric cover 160 may extend betweenadjacent welds 154 and/or may extend between adjacent filaments 144.Some suitable but non-limiting materials for the polymeric cover 160 aredescribed below.

FIG. 4 illustrates an example endoprosthesis 200, which is similar inform and construction to the endoprosthesis 100, except as discussedherein. The endoprosthesis 200 may include an anchoring portion 220 anda body portion 240 extending axially from the anchoring portion 220. Insome embodiments, the anchoring portion 220 may be braided or woven fromone or more filaments. In some embodiments, the body portion 240 may bebraided or woven from one or more filaments 244. The body portion 240may have a plurality of body cells 242 defined by the one or morefilaments 244. The body portion 240 may include a window 250 through aside and/or side wall of the body portion 240. The window 250 may bepositioned adjacent the anchoring portion 220. In one difference fromthe window 150 and the body portion 140 above, the window 250 may beformed without cutting and/or welding (or otherwise joining) any of theone or more filaments 244 of the body portion 240. Instead, the one ormore filaments 244 may each be arranged and/or may extend around aperimeter 252 of the window 250 such that multiple filaments of the oneor more filaments 244 may define the perimeter 252 of the window 250.For example, when braiding and/or weaving the one or more filaments 244of the body portion 240, a braiding mandrel may include a raised portionor a protrusion that the one or more filaments 244 are directed aroundto form the perimeter 252 of the window 250. As such, the raised portionor the protrusion of the mandrel effectively defines the window 250 whenthe endoprosthesis 200 is disposed on the braiding mandrel.

As may be seen in FIG. 4, as the one or more filaments 244 approach thewindow 250, the pitch between adjacent filaments may be altered to anglethe one or more filaments 244 around the perimeter 252 of the window250. As such, the pitch between adjacent filaments may be variable alongthe axial length of the body portion 240, with the pitch betweenadjacent filaments being widest adjacent axial ends of the window 250.Accordingly, the plurality of body cells 242 may be variable in size,with the plurality of body cells 242 formed by the filaments having thewidest pitch generally being the largest. Regardless of the size of anyindividual cell of the plurality of body cells 242, the window 250 maystill occupy space equivalent to at least of the plurality of body cells242. Additionally, similar to the endoprosthesis 100 above, theendoprosthesis 200 may include a polymeric cover (not shown) arrangedand/or configured as discussed above. Some suitable but non-limitingmaterials for the endoprosthesis 200, and/or components or elementsthereof, for example metallic materials and/or polymeric materials, aredescribed below.

In the endoprosthesis 100 (and similarly the endoprosthesis 200), thefirst and second transverse flanges 132/134 may be configured to and/ormay cooperate to secure the anchoring portion 120 at an orifice of abody lumen, such as the papilla of Vater 52. In the deployedconfiguration, the first transverse flange 132 and the second transverseflange 134 may be configured to sandwich, pinch, and/or compress tissueforming the orifice of the body lumen therebetween. For example, thefirst transverse flange 132 may be configured to be positioned outsideof the body lumen (e.g., within the duodenum 50) and the secondtransverse flange 134 may be configured to be positioned inside of thebody lumen (e.g., within the ampulla of Vater 54) on an opposite side ofthe tissue forming the orifice of the body lumen (e.g., the papilla ofVater 52) with the saddle portion 136 extending through and/or disposedwithin the orifice of the body lumen (e.g., within and/or extendingthrough the papilla of Vater 52), as seen in FIGS. 5 and 6 for example.The first transverse flange 132 and the second transverse flange 134 mayprevent migration of the endoprosthesis 100 within the body lumen and/orwithin or through the orifice of the body lumen (e.g., the papilla ofVater 52).

The body portion 140 may extend axially away from the anchoring portion120 and into the body lumen being treated. In one example, the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34 and/or the pancreatic duct 42) maybe partially and/or completely obstructed by a stricture 60, as seen inFIG. 5. The body portion 140 may be disposed within the body lumenextending through the stricture 60 to maintain and/or re-establishpatency of the body lumen. In some embodiments, the body portion 140 maybe configured to dilate at least a portion of the body lumen in thedeployed configuration. For example, the body portion 140 may beconfigured to exert a radially outward force upon a wall of the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34 and/or the pancreatic duct 42)and/or against the stricture 60 that has formed therein.

In some embodiments, the window 150 may result in a reduced radiallyoutward force being applied to the wall of the body lumen in the firstbody portion 146 due to the body portion 140 having an incompletecircumference along the axial length of the window 150. In someembodiments, the first body portion 146 opposite the window 150 relativeto the central longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 100 and/or theexpandable framework and may be configured to exert less radiallyoutward force on the body lumen than the second body portion 148opposite the anchoring portion 120 relative to the window 150. Forexample, in the arrangement shown in FIG. 5, the first body portion 146may be positioned within the ampulla of Vater 54, and may be configuredto exert less radially outward force on the ampulla of Vater 54 than thesecond body portion 148 exerts on the common bile duct 34 and/or thestricture 60, which has partially obstructed the common bile duct 34.

The endoprosthesis 100 may be oriented using a suitable imagingtechnique or other means such that the window 150 faces toward anopening of an adjacent and/or branching body lumen. In the example ofFIG. 5, the body portion 140 extends into the common bile duct 34 andthe window 150 faces toward the opening of the pancreatic duct 42. Thisorientation permits fluid and/or debris within the common bile duct 34to flow through the lumen of the body portion 140 and/or past thestricture 60 without obstructing the pancreatic duct 42. Similarly, thesame endoprosthesis 100 may be positioned with the body portion 140extending within the pancreatic duct 42 and the window 150 facing towardthe opening of the common bile duct 34, as seen in FIG. 6. Thisorientation permits fluid and/or debris within the pancreatic duct 42 toflow through the lumen of the body portion 140 (and/or past anystructure that may have formed within the pancreatic duct 42) withoutobstructing the common bile duct 34. Accordingly, in both examples,fluids and/or debris from both body lumens may flow through the lumen ofthe anchoring portion 120 and/or the through the papilla of Vater 52 andinto the duodenum 50.

FIG. 7 illustrates an example endoprosthesis 300 (which term may be usedinterchangeably with the term “stent” herein) comprising an expandableframework including an anchoring portion 320, a body portion 340extending axially away from the anchoring portion 320 along a centrallongitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandableframework, and a linking portion 350 extending axially from theanchoring portion 320 to the body portion 340 along the centrallongitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandableframework. The endoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandable framework may beconfigured to shift between a delivery configuration and a deployedconfiguration. The delivery configuration may be axially elongatedand/or radially collapsed or compressed compared to the deployedconfiguration. The deployed configuration may be axially shortenedand/or radially expanded compared to the delivery configuration. In atleast some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandableframework may be self-expandable. For example, the endoprosthesis 300and/or the expandable framework may be formed from a shape memorymaterial. In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 300 and/or theexpandable framework may be mechanically expandable. For example, theendoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandable framework may be expandableusing an inflatable balloon, using an actuation member, or othersuitable means. During delivery to a treatment site, the endoprosthesis300 and/or the expandable framework may be disposed within a lumen of adelivery sheath in the delivery configuration. Upon removal from thelumen of the delivery sheath, the endoprosthesis 300 and/or theexpandable framework may be shifted to the deployed configuration.

As seen in the deployed configuration illustrated in FIG. 7, theanchoring portion 320 may have a plurality of anchoring cells 322. Theanchoring portion 320 may include one or more filaments 324 interwovenaround the central longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 300 and/orthe expandable framework. The one or more filaments 324 of the anchoringportion 320 may form and/or define the plurality of anchoring cells 322.In the deployed configuration, the anchoring portion 320 may include afirst transverse flange 332 and a second transverse flange 334 proximatethe first transverse flange 332. The anchoring portion 320 may besubstantially tubular and/or may include a lumen extending axiallythrough the anchoring portion 320. The first transverse flange 332 andthe second transverse flange 334 may be axially spaced apart by a saddleportion 336. In some embodiments, the saddle portion 336 maysubstantially define the lumen extending axially through the anchoringportion 320.

In some embodiments, the first transverse flange 332 and/or the secondtransverse flange 334 may each have an axial thickness FT′ or axialextent of about 0.5 millimeters to about 3 millimeters, about 1millimeter to about 2 millimeters, or another suitable range. In someembodiments, the first transverse flange 332 and/or the secondtransverse flange 334 may each have a radial outer dimension FD′ orradial extent of about 15 millimeters to about 30 millimeters, about 17millimeters to about 24 millimeters, about 18 millimeters to about 20millimeters, or another suitable range. In some embodiments, the saddleportion 336 may have an axial length SL′ of about 2 millimeters to about18 millimeters, about 5 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, about 8millimeters to about 12 millimeters, or another suitable range. In someembodiments, the saddle portion 336 may have a radial outer dimensionSD′ or radial extent of about 2 millimeters to about 18 millimeters,about 4 millimeters to about 16 millimeters, about 8 millimeters toabout 15 millimeters, or another suitable range. Other configurationsare also contemplated.

The body portion 340 may have a plurality of body cells 342. The bodyportion 340 may include one or more filaments 344 interwoven around thecentral longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 300 and/or theexpandable framework. In at least some embodiments, the body portion 340may be coaxial with the anchoring portion 320 and/or the linking portion350. The one or more filaments 344 of the body portion 340 may formand/or define the plurality of body cells 342. The body portion 340 maybe substantially tubular and/or may include a lumen extending axiallythrough the body portion 340. The body portion 340 and/or the one ormore filaments 344 interwoven around the central longitudinal axis ofthe endoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandable framework may define thelumen extending axially through the body portion 340. In at least someembodiments, the lumen extending axially through the body portion 340may be aligned with, may be coaxial with, and/or may intersect with thelumen extending axially through the anchoring portion 320 to define asingle lumen extending axially through the endoprosthesis 300 and/or theexpandable framework.

In some embodiments, the body portion 340 may have an axial length BL′of about 40 millimeters to about 150 millimeters, about 50 millimetersto about 135 millimeters, about 60 millimeters to about 120 millimeters,about 80 millimeters to about 100 millimeters, or another suitablerange. In some embodiments, the body portion 340 may have a radial outerdimension BD′ or radial extent of about 5 millimeters to about 18millimeters, about 6 millimeters to about 15 millimeters, about 8millimeters to about 12 millimeters, or another suitable range. Otherconfigurations are also contemplated.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 350 may include a plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 352 spacing the body portion 340 from theanchoring portion 320. The linking portion 350 may be positionedimmediately adjacent the anchoring portion 320. The plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 352 may include one or more pairs of afirst strut 351 and a second strut 353 extending longitudinally from theanchoring portion 320 to the body portion 340. The first strut 351 andthe second strut 353 may be positioned and/or oriented substantiallyparallel to each other. In at least some embodiments, the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 352, and/or the one or more pairs of thefirst strut 351 and the second strut 353, may be positioned and/ororiented substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axis of theendoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandable framework.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 350 and/or the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 352 may have an axial length WL′ of about15 to about 50 millimeters, about 20 to about 35 millimeters, or anothersuitable range. Other configurations are also contemplated. In at leastsome embodiments, the linking portion 350 and/or the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 352 may be axially longer than theanchoring portion 320 and/or axially shorter than the body portion 340.

In at least some embodiments, the linking portion 350 may be formed bymanipulating at least a portion of the one or more filaments 344 of thebody portion 340. For example, one of the one or more filaments 344 mayextend away from the body portion 340 to form the first strut 351 andanother of the one or more filaments 344 may extend away from the bodyportion 340 to form the second strut 353. In some embodiments, the firststrut 351 and the second strut 353 may be fixedly attached togetherusing one or more welds 354, or other suitable fixation means includingbut not limited to adhesive bonding, etc., disposed along and betweenthe first strut 351 and the second strut 353 within the linking portion350. In some embodiments, at least some of the one or more filaments 344may be “turned back” at a proximal end of the body portion 340. In someembodiments, one or more of the “turned back” filaments may be disposedbetween adjacent pairs of the one or more pairs of the first strut 351and the second strut 353. In some embodiments, a free end of the one ormore “turned back” filaments may be fixedly attached (e.g., welded,bonded, etc.) to one or more of the one or more filaments 344 distal ofthe proximal end of the body portion 340 and/or within the body portion340.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 350 define a plurality oflongitudinally-extending openings 356 disposed between adjacent strutsof the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 352. For example, oneof the plurality of longitudinally-extending openings 356 may bedisposed between the second strut 353 of one pair of the one or morepairs of the first strut 351 and the second strut 353 and the firststrut 351 of an adjacent pair of the one or more pairs of the firststrut 351 and the second strut 353. In some embodiments, eachlongitudinally-extending opening 356 may occupy space equivalent to atleast two of the plurality of body cells 342. In some embodiments, eachlongitudinally-extending opening 356 may occupy space equivalent to atleast 10 or more, at least 15 or more, at least 20 or more, etc. of theplurality of body cells 342. Other configurations are also contemplated.

In some embodiments, the body portion 340 may include a flared endopposite the anchoring portion 320. In some embodiments, the flared endof the body portion 340 opposite the anchoring portion 320 may have agreater outer diameter and/or outer extent than a remainder of the bodyportion 340. In at least some embodiments, the flared end of the bodyportion 340 opposite the anchoring portion 320 may have an outerdiameter and/or outer extent that is less than the radial outerdimension FD′ or radial extent of the first transverse flange 332 and/orthe second transverse flange 334 of the anchoring portion 320.Alternatively, in some embodiments, the flared end of the body portion340 opposite the anchoring portion 320 may have an outer diameter and/orouter extent that is greater than and/or similar to the radial outerdimension FD′ or radial extent of the first transverse flange 332 and/orthe second transverse flange 334 of the anchoring portion 320.

In at least some embodiments, the anchoring portion 320 may be braidedor woven from the one or more filaments 324. In at least someembodiments, the body portion 340 may be braided or woven from the oneor more filaments 344. Other configurations for the anchoring portion320 and/or the body portion 340 are also contemplated. In someembodiments, the anchoring portion 320 may have a denser configurationof filaments and/or smaller cells than the body portion 340. In someembodiments, the one or more filaments 324 of the anchoring portion 320may have a smaller filament diameter or outer extent than the one ormore filaments 344 of the body portion 340. In some embodiments, theanchoring portion 320 and the body portion 340 may be integrally formedas a unitary and/or monolithic structure. In some embodiments, theanchoring portion 320 and the body portion 340 may be separately formedand later joined and/or fixedly attached together, such as by welding,adhesive bonding, mechanical fixation, or other suitable means. In someembodiments, the one or more filaments 324 of the anchoring portion 320may be the one or more filaments 344 of the body portion 340, or viceversa. For example, the entire endoprosthesis 300 and/or expandableframework may be formed from the same one or more filaments braidedand/or interwoven together continuously as a single monolithicstructure. Some suitable but non-limiting materials for theendoprosthesis 300, and/or components or elements thereof, for examplemetallic materials and/or polymeric materials, are described below.

As seen in FIG. 8, the endoprosthesis 300 may include a polymeric cover360 disposed on at least a portion of the expandable framework. In someembodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may be disposed on the anchoringportion 320. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may bedisposed on the body portion 340. In some embodiments, the polymericcover 360 may be disposed on both the anchoring portion 320 and the bodyportion 340. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may bedisposed on and/or along an outer surface of the expandable framework.In some embodiments, the expandable framework (e.g., the anchoringportion 320 and/or the body portion 340) may be embedded in thepolymeric cover 360. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may befixedly or releasably secured to, bonded to, or otherwise attached toexpandable framework (e.g., the anchoring portion 320 and/or the bodyportion 340).

In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may be impermeable tofluids, debris, medical instruments, etc. The linking portion 350 may bedevoid of the polymeric cover 360. As such, the linking portion 350 maybe configured to permit unobstructed passage of fluids, debris, etc.through the side and/or side wall of the body portion 340 of theendoprosthesis 300 and/or the expandable framework within the linkingportion 350. In some embodiments, the linking portion 350 is at leastpartially defined by one or more edges 362 of the polymeric cover 360.In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may be coincident withand/or may align with the one or more filaments 344 of the body portion340 defining a distal end of the linking portion 350 and/or the proximalend of the body portion 340. In some embodiments, the one or more edges362 of the polymeric cover 360 may terminate at the one or morefilaments 344 of the body portion 340 defining the distal end of thelinking portion 350. In some embodiments, the one or more edges 362 ofthe polymeric cover 360 may extend between adjacent filaments 344. Somesuitable but non-limiting materials for the polymeric cover 360 aredescribed below.

In the endoprosthesis 300, the first and second transverse flanges332/334 may be configured to and/or may cooperate to secure theanchoring portion 320 at an orifice of a body lumen, such as the papillaof Vater 52. In the deployed configuration, the first transverse flange332 and the second transverse flange 334 may be configured to sandwich,pinch, and/or compress tissue forming the orifice of the body lumentherebetween. For example, the first transverse flange 332 may beconfigured to be positioned outside of the body lumen (e.g., within theduodenum 50) and the second transverse flange 334 may be configured tobe positioned inside of the body lumen (e.g., within the ampulla ofVater 54) on an opposite side of the tissue forming the orifice of thebody lumen (e.g., the papilla of Vater 52) with the saddle portion 336extending through and/or disposed within the orifice of the body lumen(e.g., within and/or extending through the papilla of Vater 52), as seenin FIGS. 9 and 10 for example. The first transverse flange 332 and thesecond transverse flange 334 may prevent migration of the endoprosthesis300 within the body lumen and/or within or through the orifice of thebody lumen (e.g., the papilla of Vater 52).

The body portion 340 may extend axially away from the anchoring portion320 and into the body lumen being treated. In one example, the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34 and/or the pancreatic duct 42) maybe partially and/or completely obstructed by a stricture 60, as seen inFIG. 9. The body portion 340 may be disposed within the body lumenextending through the stricture 60 to maintain and/or re-establishpatency of the body lumen. In some embodiments, the body portion 340 maybe configured to dilate at least a portion of the body lumen in thedeployed configuration. For example, the body portion 340 may beconfigured to exert a radially outward force upon a wall of the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34 and/or the pancreatic duct 42)and/or against the stricture 60 that has formed therein.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 350 may be configured to exertless radially outward force on the body lumen than the body portion 340.For example, in the arrangement shown in FIG. 9, the linking portion 350may be positioned within the ampulla of Vater 54, and may be configuredto exert less radially outward force on the ampulla of Vater 54 than thebody portion 340 exerts on the common bile duct 34 and/or the stricture60, which has partially obstructed the common bile duct 34.

The endoprosthesis 300 may be positioned using a suitable imagingtechnique or other means such that the linking portion 350 extendsacross an opening of an adjacent and/or branching body lumen. In theexample of FIG. 9, the body portion 140 extends into the common bileduct 34 and the linking portion 350 extends across the opening of thepancreatic duct 42. This positioning permits fluid and/or debris withinthe common bile duct 34 to flow through the lumen of the body portion140 and/or past the stricture 60 without obstructing the pancreatic duct42. Similarly, the same endoprosthesis 300 may be positioned with thebody portion 340 extending within the pancreatic duct 42 and linkingportion 350 extending across the opening of the common bile duct 34, asseen in FIG. 10. This positioning permits fluid and/or debris within thepancreatic duct 42 to flow through the lumen of the body portion 340(and/or past any structure that may have formed within the pancreaticduct 42) without obstructing the common bile duct 34. Accordingly, inboth examples, fluids and/or debris from both body lumens may flowthrough the lumen of the anchoring portion 320 and/or the through thepapilla of Vater 52 and into the duodenum 50. Since the orientation ofthe endoprosthesis 300 is non-directional, placement in a particularorientation is not necessary in order to obtain the benefit(s) of thelinking portion 350 extending across the opening of an adjacent and/orbranching body lumen, which may reduce procedure time and cost as wellas reduce orientation errors that could result in a blocked or partiallyblocked adjacent and/or branching body lumen.

In an alternative configuration, the expandable framework of theendoprosthesis 100 of FIG. 2 may further include a tapered flange 180extending axially away from the anchoring portion 120 and radiallyoutward from the body portion 140, as seen in FIG. 11. For example, thetapered flange 180 may extend distally from the anchoring portion 120toward and/or coaxially with the body portion 140. In some embodiments,the tapered flange 180 may at least partially axially overlap the window150. In at least some embodiments, the polymeric cover 160 may bedisposed on the tapered flange 180. In some embodiments, the taperedflange 180 may be embedded within the polymeric cover 160. When theendoprosthesis 100 is placed within the body lumen, the tapered flange180 may be configured to direct and/or funnel fluid and/or debris fromthe adjacent and/or branching body lumen into the lumen of the anchoringportion 120. For example, the tapered flange 180 could be deployedwithin the ampulla of Vater 54 and the tapered flange 180 may beconfigured to engage with and/or exert a radially outward force againstthe wall of the body lumen (e.g., the ampulla of Vater 54). While notexplicitly illustrated, the tapered flange 180 of the endoprosthesis 100may also be implemented in connection with the endoprosthesis 200 in asimilar manner to that described with respect to the endoprosthesis 100.

In another alternative configuration, the expandable framework of theendoprosthesis 300 of FIG. 7 may further include a tapered flange 380extending axially away from the anchoring portion 320 and radiallyoutward from the linking portion 350 and/or the body portion 340, asseen in FIG. 12. For example, the tapered flange 380 may extend distallyfrom the anchoring portion 320 toward and/or coaxially with the bodyportion 340. In some embodiments, the tapered flange 380 may at leastpartially axially overlap the linking portion 350. In at least someembodiments, the polymeric cover 360 may be disposed on the taperedflange 380. In some embodiments, the tapered flange 380 may be embeddedwithin the polymeric cover 360. When the endoprosthesis 300 is placedwithin the body lumen, the tapered flange 380 may be configured todirect and/or funnel fluid and/or debris from the adjacent and/orbranching body lumen into the lumen of the anchoring portion 320. Forexample, the tapered flange 380 could be deployed within the ampulla ofVater 54 and the tapered flange 380 may be configured to engage withand/or exert a radially outward force against the wall of the body lumen(e.g., the ampulla of Vater 54).

FIG. 13 illustrates an example endoprosthesis 400 (which term may beused interchangeably with the term “stent” herein) comprising anexpandable framework including a first braided portion 420, a secondbraided portion 440, and a linking portion 430 extending axially fromthe first braided portion 420 to the second braided portion 440 along acentral longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 400 and/or theexpandable framework. The endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandableframework may be configured to shift between a delivery configurationand a deployed configuration. The delivery configuration may be axiallyelongated and/or radially collapsed or compressed compared to thedeployed configuration. The deployed configuration may be axiallyshortened and/or radially expanded compared to the deliveryconfiguration. In at least some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 400and/or the expandable framework may be self-expandable. For example, theendoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework may be formed from ashape memory material. In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 400and/or the expandable framework may be mechanically expandable. Forexample, the endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework may beexpandable using an inflatable balloon, using an actuation member, orother suitable means. During delivery to a treatment site, theendoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework may be disposedwithin a lumen of a delivery sheath in the delivery configuration. Uponremoval from the lumen of the delivery sheath, the endoprosthesis 400and/or the expandable framework may be shifted to the deployedconfiguration.

As seen in the deployed configuration illustrated in FIG. 13, the firstbraided portion 420 may have a plurality of first cells 422. The firstbraided portion 420 may include one or more first filaments 424interwoven around the central longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis400 and/or the expandable framework. The one or more first filaments 424of the first braided portion 420 may form and/or define the plurality offirst cells 422. In some embodiments, the first braided portion 420 maydefine a lumen extending axially through the first braided portion 420.

The second braided portion 440 may have a plurality of second cells 442.The second braided portion 440 may include one or more second filaments444 interwoven around the central longitudinal axis of theendoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework. In at least someembodiments, the second braided portion 440 may be coaxial with thefirst braided portion 420. The one or more second filaments 444 of thesecond braided portion 440 may form and/or define the plurality ofsecond cells 442. The second braided portion 440 may be substantiallytubular and/or may include a lumen extending axially through the secondbraided portion 440. The second braided portion 440 and/or the one ormore second filaments 444 interwoven around the central longitudinalaxis of the endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework maydefine the lumen extending axially through the second braided portion440. In at least some embodiments, the lumen extending axially throughthe second braided portion 440 may be aligned with, may be coaxial with,and/or may intersect with the lumen extending axially through the firstbraided portion 420 to define a single lumen extending axially throughthe endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 430 may include a plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 432 spacing the first braided portion 420apart from the second braided portion 440. The plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 432 may include one or more pairs of afirst strut 431 and a second strut 433 extending longitudinally from thefirst braided portion 420 to the second braided portion 440. The firststrut 431 and the second strut 433 may be positioned and/or orientedsubstantially parallel to each other. In at least some embodiments, theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432, and/or the one or morepairs of the first strut 431 and the second strut 433, may be positionedand/or oriented substantially parallel to the central longitudinal axisof the endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework.

In at least some embodiments, the linking portion 430 may be formed bymanipulating at least a portion of the one or more first filaments 424of the first braided portion 420 and/or at least a portion of the one ormore second filaments 444 of the second braided portion 440. Forexample, one of the one or more first filaments 424 of the first braidedportion 420 may extend away from the first braided portion 420 to formthe first strut 431 and one of the one or more second filaments 444 ofthe second braided portion 440 may extend away from the second braidedportion 440 to form the second strut 433. In some embodiments, the firststrut 431 and the second strut 433 may be fixedly attached togetherusing one or more welds 434, or other suitable fixation means includingbut not limited to adhesive bonding, etc., disposed along and betweenthe first strut 431 and the second strut 433 within the linking portion430.

In some embodiments, at least some of the one or more first filaments424 of the first braided portion 420 may be “turned back” at a distalend of the first braided portion 420, and at least some of the one ormore second filaments 444 of the second braided portion 440 may be“turned back” at a proximal end of the second braided portion 440. Insome embodiments, one or more of the “turned back” filaments may bedisposed between adjacent pairs of the one or more pairs of the firststrut 431 and the second strut 433. In some embodiments, a free end ofeach of the one or more “turned back” filaments may be fixedly attached(e.g., welded, bonded, etc.) to one or more of the one or more firstfilaments 424 of the first braided portion 420 proximal of the distalend of the first braided portion 420 and/or within the first braidedportion 420, and/or a free end of the one or more “turned back”filaments may be fixedly attached (e.g., welded, bonded, etc.) to one ormore of the one or more second filaments 444 of the second braidedportion 440 distal of the proximal end of the second braided portion 440and/or within the second braided portion 440.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 430 define a plurality oflongitudinally-extending openings 436 disposed between adjacent strutsof the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432. For example, oneof the plurality of longitudinally-extending openings 436 may bedisposed between A) the second strut 433 of one pair of the one or morepairs of the first strut 431 and the second strut 433 and B) the firststrut 431 of an adjacent pair of the one or more pairs of the firststrut 431 and the second strut 433. In some embodiments, eachlongitudinally-extending opening 436 may occupy space equivalent to atleast two of the plurality of first cells 422 and/or the plurality ofsecond cells 442. In some embodiments, each longitudinally-extendingopening 436 may occupy space equivalent to at least 10 or more, at least15 or more, at least 20 or more, etc. of the plurality of first cells422 and/or the plurality of second cells 442. Other configurations arealso contemplated.

In some embodiments, the first braided portion 420 and/or the secondbraided portion 440 may each have an axial length of about 30millimeters to about 150 millimeters, about 45 millimeters to about 135millimeters, about 60 millimeters to about 120 millimeters, about 80millimeters to about 100 millimeters, or another suitable range. In someembodiments, the first braided portion 420 and/or the second braidedportion 440 may each have a radial outer dimension or radial extent ofabout 4 millimeters to about 18 millimeters, about 6 millimeters toabout 15 millimeters, about 8 millimeters to about 12 millimeters, oranother suitable range. In some embodiments, the linking portion 430and/or the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 may have anaxial length of about 15 to about 50 millimeters, about 20 to about 35millimeters, or another suitable range. Other configurations are alsocontemplated. In at least some embodiments, the linking portion 430and/or the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 may beaxially shorter than the first braided portion 420 and/or the secondbraided portion 440. Other configurations are also contemplated.

In some embodiments, the first braided portion 420 and/or the secondbraided portion 440 may include a flared free end opposite the linkingportion 430. In some embodiments, the flared end(s) of the first braidedportion 420 and/or the second braided portion 440 opposite the linkingportion 430 may have a greater outer diameter and/or outer extent than aremainder of the first braided portion 420, the second braided portion440, and/or the linking portion 430.

In at least some embodiments, the first braided portion 420 and/or thesecond braided portion 440 may be braided or woven from the one or morefilaments first 424 and/or the one or more second filaments 444,respectively. Other configurations are also contemplated. In someembodiments, the one of the first braided portion 420 and/or the secondbraided portion 440 may have a denser configuration of filaments and/orsmaller cells than the other of the first braided portion 420 and/or thesecond braided portion 440. In some embodiments, the one or more firstfilaments 424 of the first braided portion 420 may have a smallerfilament diameter or outer extent than the one or more second filaments444 of the second braided portion 440, and vice versa. In someembodiments, the first braided portion 420 and/or the second braidedportion 440 may be separately formed and later joined and/or fixedlyattached together, such as by welding, adhesive bonding, mechanicalfixation, or other suitable means. Some suitable but non-limitingmaterials for the endoprosthesis 400, and/or components or elementsthereof, for example metallic materials and/or polymeric materials, aredescribed below.

In an alternative configuration, the linking portion 430 of theendoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandable framework may include theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 being angled radiallyinward toward the central longitudinal axis of the endoprosthesis 400and/or the expandable framework between the first braided portion 420and the second braided portion 440, as seen in FIG. 14. Accordingly, theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 may be oriented at anoblique angle relative to the central longitudinal axis, the firstbraided portion 420, and/or the second braided portion 440. Angling theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 radially inward mayreduce and/or prevent interaction of the linking portion 430 and/or theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432 with the wall and/ortissue of the body lumen in which the endoprosthesis 400 is placed,which may reduce irritation of the wall and/or tissue of the body lumen,overgrowth of the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 432, andimprove removability of the endoprosthesis 400.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate another alternative configuration of theendoprosthesis 400. In the configuration shown in FIGS. 15 and 16, thelinking portion 430 of the endoprosthesis 400 and/or the expandableframework may include the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts432, as in the embodiment(s) above. However, each of the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 432 of FIGS. 15 and 16 includes a coiledportion 438 extending between the first braided portion 420 and thesecond braided portion 440. The coiled portion 438 may be spring-like,may include a helical arrangement, and/or may be configured to extendand/or compress axially and/or longitudinally between a longitudinallyextended configuration shown in FIG. 15 and a longitudinally compressedconfiguration shown in FIG. 16. Accordingly, an axial or longitudinallength of the linking portion 430 may be variable to facilitate easierplacement of the endoprosthesis 400 within the body lumen. For example,the axial or longitudinal length of the linking portion 430 between thefirst braided portion 420 and the second braided portion 440 may beadjusted (e.g., shortened or lengthened) to permit placement of the eachof the first braided portion 420 and the second braided portion 440 onopposite sides of a junction or bifurcation of two adjoining bodylumens.

In at least some embodiments, each of the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 432 and/or the coiled portion 438 thereofmay be disposed radially within and/or radially inward of an outerextent of the endoprosthesis 400 defined by the first braided portion420 and/or the second braided portion 440, so as to minimize interactionwith the wall and/or tissue of the body lumen in which theendoprosthesis 400 is placed. For example, in some embodiments, thecoiled portion 438 may not extend radially outward of the first braidedportion 420 or the second braided portion 440. In some embodiments, thecoiled portion 438 may not extend radially outward of either one of thefirst braided portion 420 and the second braided portion 440.

In some embodiments, the first braided portion 420, the linking portion430, and/or the second braided portion 440 of FIGS. 15 and 16 may beintegrally formed as a unitary and/or monolithic structure. In someembodiments, the first braided portion 420, the linking portion 430,and/or the second braided portion 440 may be separately formed and laterjoined and/or fixedly attached together, such as by welding, adhesivebonding, mechanical fixation, or other suitable means. In someembodiments, the one or more first filaments 424 of the first braidedportion 420 may be the one or more second filaments 444 of the secondbraided portion 440, or vice versa, and the one or more first filaments424 or the one or more second filaments 444 may also form the pluralityof longitudinally-oriented struts 432 and/or the coiled portion 438thereof. For example, the entire endoprosthesis 400 and/or expandableframework may be formed from the same one or more filaments braidedand/or interwoven together continuously as a single monolithicstructure.

As seen in FIG. 17, the endoprosthesis 400 may include a polymeric cover460 disposed on at least a portion of the expandable framework. In someembodiments, the polymeric cover 460 may be disposed on the firstbraided portion 420. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 460 may bedisposed on the second braided portion 440. In some embodiments, thepolymeric cover 460 may be disposed on both the first braided portion420 and the second braided portion 440. In some embodiments, thepolymeric cover 460 may be disposed on and/or along an outer surface ofthe expandable framework. In some embodiments, at least a portion of theexpandable framework (e.g., the first braided portion 420 and/or thesecond braided portion 440) may be embedded in the polymeric cover 460.In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 460 may be fixedly orreleasably secured to, bonded to, or otherwise attached to expandableframework (e.g., the first braided portion 420 and/or the second braidedportion 440).

In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 460 may be impermeable tofluids, debris, medical instruments, etc. The linking portion 430 may bedevoid of the polymeric cover 460. As such, the linking portion 430 maybe configured to permit passage of fluids, debris, medical instruments,etc. through the side and/or side wall of the endoprosthesis 400 and/orthe expandable framework between the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts 432 and/or through the plurality oflongitudinally-extending openings 436. In some embodiments, the linkingportion 430 may be at least partially defined by one or more edges 462of the polymeric cover 460. In some embodiments, the polymeric cover 460may be coincident with and/or may align with at least a portion of theone or more first filaments 424 of the first braided portion 420 and/orthe one or more second filaments 444 of the second braided portion 440.In some embodiments, the one or more edges 462 of the polymeric cover460 may terminate at the one or more first filaments 424 of the firstbraided portion 420 and/or the one or more second filaments 444 of thesecond braided portion 440. In some embodiments, the one or more edges462 of the polymeric cover 460 may extend between adjacent filaments424/444. Some suitable but non-limiting materials for the polymericcover 460 are described below.

FIG. 17 additionally illustrates an example placement of theendoprosthesis 400 within a body lumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34,etc.) being treated. The first braided portion 420, the linking portion430, and the second braided portion 440 may be disposed within the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34, etc.) being treated. In someembodiments, the body lumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34, etc.) beingtreated may be partially and/or completely obstructed by a stricture orother blockage. The first braided portion 420 and/or the second braidedportion 440 may be configured to dilate at least a portion of the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34, etc.) being treated in thedeployed configuration. For example, the first braided portion 420and/or the second braided portion 440 may be configured to exert aradially outward force upon a wall of the body lumen (e.g., the commonbile duct 34, etc.) being treated and/or against a stricture that hasformed therein.

In some embodiments, the linking portion 430 may be configured to exertless radially outward force on the wall of the body lumen (e.g., thecommon bile duct 34, etc.) being treated than the first braided portion420 and/or the second braided portion 440. For example, in thearrangement shown in FIG. 17, the linking portion 430 may extend acrossan opening to an adjoining body lumen (e.g., the cystic duct 32, etc.),and may be configured to exert less radially outward force on theopening of the adjoining body lumen (e.g., the cystic duct 32, etc.)than the first braided portion 420 and/or the second braided portion 440exerts on the body lumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34, etc.) beingtreated and/or the stricture which has partially obstructed the bodylumen (e.g., the common bile duct 34, etc.) being treated.

The endoprosthesis 400 may be positioned using a suitable imagingtechnique or other means such that the linking portion 430 extendsacross the opening of an adjoining and/or branching body lumen (e.g.,the cystic duct 32, etc.). In the example of FIG. 17, the first braidedportion 420 and/or the second braided portion 440 is disposed in thecommon bile duct 34 and the linking portion 430 extends across theopening of the cystic duct 32. This positioning permits fluid and/ordebris within the common bile duct 34 to flow through the lumen of thefirst braided portion 420 and/or the second braided portion 440 and/orpast the stricture without obstructing the cystic duct 32. Other bodylumens and/or bifurcations (e.g., junction of the left hepatic duct 12and the right hepatic duct 14, etc.) and body lumens in other anatomicalregions may be treated similarly. Since the orientation of theendoprosthesis 400 is non-directional, placement in a particularorientation is not necessary in order to obtain the benefit(s) of thelinking portion 430 extending across the opening of an adjoining and/orbranching body lumen, which may reduce procedure time and cost as wellas reduce orientation errors that could result in a blocked or partiallyblocked adjoining and/or branching body lumen. In this way, the linkingportion 430 may permit fluid and/or debris from the adjoining body lumento flow freely into the lumen of the endoprosthesis 400 and through thebody lumen that the first braided portion 420 is disposed within.

FIG. 18 illustrates aspects of an example braiding mandrel 500 for usein manufacturing the endoprosthesis 300 and/or the endoprosthesis 400.The braiding mandrel 500 is a tubular cylindrical member having a distalend 504, a proximal end 502 configured to be secured to a braidingmachine, and a longitudinal portion 510 extending between the proximalend 502 and the distal end 504. The braiding mandrel 500 may include aplurality of securement projections 506 disposed proximate the distalend 504 useful for engaging the one or more filaments 344 of the bodyportion 340 of the endoprosthesis 300 prior to commencement of braiding.In some embodiments, the plurality of securement projections 506 may beformed as raised tabs. In some embodiments, the plurality of securementprojections 506 may have a rounded face for ease of securement of theone or more filaments 344 and for safety by generally eliminating shapedand pointed faces on the braiding mandrel 500. In some embodiments, theplurality of securement projections 506 may be useful for bending theone or more filaments 344 about an under portion of the raised tab. Insome embodiments, the under portion of the plurality of securementprojections 506 may be recessed from the rounded face to secure the oneor more filaments 344 thereat. Additionally, in some embodiments, theunder portion of the raised tab may be contoured so that the shape ofthe bend at the end of the body portion 340 of the endoprosthesis 300opposite the anchoring portion 320 corresponds to the shape of the underportion of the raised tab. In some embodiments, two or more of the oneor more filaments 344 may be secured to one and/or each of the pluralityof securement projections 506.

The one or more filaments 344 may be braided and/or woven in a one-overand one-under pattern to form the body portion 340 via sinusoidalmovement of the carriers of a braiding machine. Other configurations,including but not limited to a two-over and two-under pattern, are alsocontemplated. The one or more filaments 344 may non-interlockinglyengage one another in the braided pattern. Such a non-interlockingbraided pattern excludes, if desired, inter-twisting, inter-looping,inter-engaging and the like at intersections and/or crossings of the oneor more filaments 344.

The longitudinal portion 510 may include a first plurality of raisedprojections 512. In some embodiments, the first plurality of raisedprojections 512 may be arranged in a regular pattern over thelongitudinal portion 510 of the braiding mandrel 500 to that adjacent orjuxtaposed raised projections 512 form guides or channels therebetweenfor receiving the one or more filaments 344 during braiding. In at leastsome embodiments, the first plurality of raised projections 512 may bepyramidally-shaped and/or formed like pyramids having a square orrectangular base and four triangular sides extending radially outwardfrom a central longitudinal axis of the braiding mandrel 500. In someembodiments, the first plurality of raised projections 512 many includetruncated and/or rounded top portions. Other shapes and/orconfigurations are also contemplated. The first plurality of raisedprojections 512 may be configured and arranged to form guides forreceiving the one or more filaments 344 during braiding. In someembodiments, at least a part of the longitudinal portion 510 may be freeor partially free of the first plurality of raised projections 512,depending on the characteristics of the endoprosthesis 300 to beproduced. For example, the first plurality of raised projections 512need not necessarily be present along the whole braiding length and/orcircumference of the longitudinal portion 510 of the braiding mandrel500.

The braiding mandrel 500 may optionally include a distal portion 520proximate the distal end 504, wherein the distal portion 520 has alarger outer extent and/or diameter than the longitudinal portion 510.In some embodiments, the distal portion 520 may be omitted from thebraiding mandrel 500. In the absence of the distal portion 520, thelongitudinal portion 510 may extend distally to the distal end 504and/or to a position proximate the distal end 504, wherein the positionis disposed just proximal of the plurality of securement projections506. In some embodiments, there may be a tapered transition between theouter extent and/or diameter of the longitudinal portion 510 and theouter extent and/or diameter of the distal portion 520.

The distal portion 520 may include a second plurality of raisedprojections 522. In some embodiments, the second plurality of raisedprojections 522 may be arranged in a regular pattern over the distalportion 520 of the braiding mandrel 500 to that adjacent or juxtaposedraised projections 522 form guides or channels therebetween forreceiving the one or more filaments 344 during braiding. In at leastsome embodiments, the second plurality of raised projections 522 may bepyramidally-shaped and/or formed like pyramids having a square orrectangular base and four triangular sides extending radially outwardfrom the central longitudinal axis of the braiding mandrel 500. In someembodiments, the second plurality of raised projections 522 many includetruncated and/or rounded top portions. The second plurality of raisedprojections 522 may be configured and arranged to form guides forreceiving the one or more filaments 344 during braiding. In someembodiments, at least a part of the distal portion 520 may be free orpartially free of the first plurality of raised projections 522,depending on the characteristics of the endoprosthesis 300 to beproduced. For example, the second plurality of raised projections 522need not necessarily be present along the whole braiding length and/orcircumference of the distal portion 520 of the braiding mandrel 500. Thedistal portion 520 may be configured to form a flared end of the bodyportion 340 opposite the anchoring portion 320. In embodiments where thedistal portion 520 is omitted, the endoprosthesis 300 may be formedwithout the flared end. For example, when the distal portion 520 isomitted, the braiding mandrel 500 may have a substantially constantouter extend and/or diameter. Other shapes and/or configurations of thebraiding mandrel 500 are also contemplated.

The braiding mandrel 500 may include an intermediate grooved portion 530disposed between the proximal end 502 and the longitudinal portion 510.In at least some embodiments, the intermediate grooved portion 530 maybe disposed immediately adjacent the longitudinal portion 510. Theintermediate grooved portion 530 may include a plurality oflongitudinally-oriented grooves 532 each configured to receive twofilaments of the one or more filaments 344 of the body portion 340therein to form the first strut 351 and the second strut 353 of theplurality of longitudinally-oriented struts 352 of the linking portion350. The first strut 351 and the second strut 353 may be welded togetherat the plurality of welds 354 either while the body portion 340 and thelinking portion 350 are disposed on the braiding mandrel 500 (e.g.,within the plurality of longitudinally-oriented grooves 532) or afterthe body portion 340 and the linking portion 350 are removed from thebraiding mandrel 500.

Similar to the plurality of securement projections 506 disposedproximate the distal end 504, the braiding mandrel 500 may include aplurality of projections 508 extending radially outward from a proximalportion 540 of the braiding mandrel 500 in some embodiments. In someembodiments, the proximal portion 540 may be optional depending on thespecific configuration of endoprosthesis being produced. For example, insome embodiments, the braiding mandrel 500 may include a secondlongitudinal portion disposed in place of the proximal portion 540and/or opposite the longitudinal portion 510 relative to theintermediate grooved portion 530 (e.g., the intermediate grooved portion530 may be disposed between the longitudinal portion 510 and the secondlongitudinal portion). Such a configuration of the braiding mandrel 500may be useful for producing the endoprosthesis 400, for example.

A similar braiding mandrel may be used in manufacturing the body portion140 of the endoprosthesis 100. However, such a mandrel would omit theintermediate grooved portion 530. The body portion 140 of theendoprosthesis 100 would be formed along the longitudinal portion 510 asin the discussion above. The one or more filaments 144 of the bodyportion 140 may be cut and/or welded to form and/or define the window150 either while the body portion 140 is disposed on the braidingmandrel 500 or after the body portion 140 has been removed from thebraiding mandrel 500. In some embodiments, the anchoring portion 120 maybe simultaneously formed on the braiding mandrel 500. In someembodiments, the anchoring portion 120 may be separately formed andsubsequently joined to the body portion 140 after the body portion 140has been removed from the braiding mandrel 500.

A similar braiding mandrel may be used in manufacturing the body portion240 of the endoprosthesis 200. Again, such a mandrel would omit theintermediate grooved portion 530. The body portion 240 of theendoprosthesis 200 would be formed along the longitudinal portion 510 asin the discussion above. When forming the endoprosthesis 200, aradially-extending projection may be added along the longitudinalportion 510 in place of several of the plurality of raised projections512. The one or more filaments 244 of the body portion 240 may bebraided and/or routed around the radially-extending projection to formthe window 250 without cutting and/or welding any of the one or morefilaments 244, as is the case with the endoprosthesis 100. In someembodiments, the anchoring portion 220 may be simultaneously formed onthe braiding mandrel 500. In some embodiments, the anchoring portion 220may be separately formed and subsequently joined to the body portion 240after the body portion 240 has been removed from the braiding mandrel500.

The materials that can be used for the various components of theendoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 and the various elements thereofdisclosed herein may include those commonly associated with medicaldevices. For simplicity purposes, the following discussion makesreference to the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400. However, this is notintended to limit the devices and methods described herein, as thediscussion may be applied to other elements, members, components, ordevices disclosed herein, such as, but not limited to, the expandableframework, the anchoring portion, the body portion, the linking portion,the polymeric cover, and/or elements or components thereof.

In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400, and/orcomponents thereof, may be made from a metal, metal alloy, polymer (someexamples of which are disclosed below), a metal-polymer composite,ceramics, combinations thereof, and the like, or other suitablematerial.

Some examples of suitable polymers may include polytetrafluoroethylene(PTFE), ethylene tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE), fluorinated ethylenepropylene (FEP), polyoxymethylene (POM, for example, DELRIN® availablefrom DuPont), polyether block ester, polyurethane (for example,Polyurethane 85A), polypropylene (PP), polyvinylchloride (PVC),polyether-ester (for example, ARNITEL® available from DSM EngineeringPlastics), ether or ester based copolymers (for example,butylene/poly(alkylene ether) phthalate and/or other polyesterelastomers such as HYTREL® available from DuPont), polyamide (forexample, DURETHAN® available from Bayer or CRISTAMID® available from ElfAtochem), elastomeric polyamides, block polyamide/ethers, polyetherblock amide (PEBA, for example available under the trade name PEBAX®),ethylene vinyl acetate copolymers (EVA), silicones, polyethylene (PE),Marlex high-density polyethylene, Marlex low-density polyethylene,linear low density polyethylene (for example REXELL®), polyester,polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyethylene terephthalate (PET),polytrimethylene terephthalate, polyethylene naphthalate (PEN),polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyimide (PI), polyetherimide (PEI),polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), polyphenylene oxide (PPO), polyparaphenylene terephthalamide (for example, KEVLAR®), polysulfone,nylon, nylon-12 (such as GRILAMID® available from EMS American Grilon),perfluoro(propyl vinyl ether) (PFA), ethylene vinyl alcohol, polyolefin,polystyrene, epoxy, polyvinylidene chloride (PVdC),poly(styrene-b-isobutylene-b-styrene) (for example, SIBS and/or SIBS50A), polycarbonates, polyurethane silicone copolymers (for example,ElastEon® from Aortech Biomaterials or ChronoSil® from AdvanSourceBiomaterials), biocompatible polymers, other suitable materials, ormixtures, combinations, copolymers thereof, polymer/metal composites,and the like. In some embodiments the sheath can be blended with aliquid crystal polymer (LCP). For example, the mixture can contain up toabout 6 percent LCP.

Some examples of suitable metals and metal alloys include stainlesssteel, such as 304V, 304L, and 316LV stainless steel; mild steel;nickel-titanium alloy such as linear-elastic and/or super-elasticnitinol; other nickel alloys such as nickel-chromium-molybdenum alloys(e.g., UNS: N06625 such as INCONEL® 625, UNS: N06022 such as HASTELLOY®C-22®, UNS: N10276 such as HASTELLOY® C276®, other HASTELLOY® alloys,and the like), nickel-copper alloys (e.g., UNS: N04400 such as MONEL®400, NICKELVAC® 400, NICORROS® 400, and the like),nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30035 such asMP35-N® and the like), nickel-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: N10665 suchas HASTELLOY® ALLOY B2®), other nickel-chromium alloys, othernickel-molybdenum alloys, other nickel-cobalt alloys, other nickel-ironalloys, other nickel-copper alloys, other nickel-tungsten or tungstenalloys, and the like; cobalt-chromium alloys; cobalt-chromium-molybdenumalloys (e.g., UNS: R30003 such as ELGILOY®, PHYNOX®, and the like);platinum enriched stainless steel; titanium; platinum; palladium; gold;combinations thereof; or any other suitable material.

In some embodiments, a linear elastic and/or non-super-elasticnickel-titanium alloy may be in the range of about 50 to about 60 weightpercent nickel, with the remainder being essentially titanium. In someembodiments, the composition is in the range of about 54 to about 57weight percent nickel. One example of a suitable nickel-titanium alloyis FHP-NT alloy commercially available from Furukawa Techno Material Co.of Kanagawa, Japan. Other suitable materials may include ULTANIUM™(available from Neo-Metrics) and GUM METAL™ (available from Toyota). Insome other embodiments, a superelastic alloy, for example a superelasticnitinol can be used to achieve desired properties.

In at least some embodiments, portions or all of the endoprosthesis100/200/300/400, and/or components thereof, may also be doped with, madeof, or otherwise include a radiopaque material. Radiopaque materials areunderstood to be materials capable of producing a relatively brightimage on a fluoroscopy screen or another imaging technique during amedical procedure. This relatively bright image aids the user of theendoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 in determining its location. Someexamples of radiopaque materials can include, but are not limited to,gold, platinum, palladium, tantalum, tungsten alloy, polymer materialloaded with a radiopaque filler, and the like. Additionally, otherradiopaque marker bands and/or coils may also be incorporated into thedesign of the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 to achieve the same result.

In some embodiments, a degree of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MM)compatibility is imparted into the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 and/orother elements disclosed herein. For example, the endoprosthesis100/200/300/400, and/or components or portions thereof, may be made of amaterial that does not substantially distort the image and createsubstantial artifacts (i.e., gaps in the image). Certain ferromagneticmaterials, for example, may not be suitable because they may createartifacts in an Mill image. The endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400, orportions thereof, may also be made from a material that the Mill machinecan image. Some materials that exhibit these characteristics include,for example, tungsten, cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS:R30003 such as ELGILOY®, PHYNOX®, and the like),nickel-cobalt-chromium-molybdenum alloys (e.g., UNS: R30035 such asMP35-N® and the like), nitinol, and the like, and others.

In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 and/or otherelements disclosed herein may include a fabric material disposed over orwithin the structure. The fabric material may be composed of abiocompatible material, such a polymeric material or biomaterial,adapted to promote tissue ingrowth. In some embodiments, the fabricmaterial may include a bioabsorbable material. Some examples of suitablefabric materials include, but are not limited to, polyethylene glycol(PEG), nylon, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE, ePTFE), a polyolefinicmaterial such as a polyethylene, a polypropylene, polyester,polyurethane, and/or blends or combinations thereof.

In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 and/or otherelements disclosed herein may include and/or be formed from a textilematerial. Some examples of suitable textile materials may includesynthetic yarns that may be flat, shaped, twisted, textured, pre-shrunkor un-shrunk. Synthetic biocompatible yarns suitable for use in thepresent invention include, but are not limited to, polyesters, includingpolyethylene terephthalate (PET) polyesters, polypropylenes,polyethylenes, polyurethanes, polyolefins, polyvinyls,polymethylacetates, polyamides, naphthalene dicarboxylene derivatives,natural silk, and polytetrafluoroethylenes. Moreover, at least one ofthe synthetic yarns may be a metallic yarn or a glass or ceramic yarn orfiber. Useful metallic yarns include those yarns made from or containingstainless steel, platinum, gold, titanium, tantalum or a Ni—Co—Cr-basedalloy. The yarns may further include carbon, glass or ceramic fibers.Desirably, the yarns are made from thermoplastic materials including,but not limited to, polyesters, polypropylenes, polyethylenes,polyurethanes, polynaphthalenes, polytetrafluoroethylenes, and the like.The yarns may be of the multifilament, monofilament, or spun-types. Thetype and denier of the yarn chosen may be selected in a manner whichforms a biocompatible and implantable prosthesis and, more particularly,a vascular structure having desirable properties.

In some embodiments, the endoprosthesis 100/200/300/400 and/or otherelements disclosed herein may include and/or be treated with a suitabletherapeutic agent. Some examples of suitable therapeutic agents mayinclude anti-thrombogenic agents (such as heparin, heparin derivatives,urokinase, and PPack (dextrophenylalanine proline argininechloromethylketone)); anti-proliferative agents (such as enoxaparin,angiopeptin, monoclonal antibodies capable of blocking smooth musclecell proliferation, hirudin, and acetylsalicylic acid);anti-inflammatory agents (such as dexamethasone, prednisolone,corticosterone, budesonide, estrogen, sulfasalazine, and mesalamine);antineoplastic/antiproliferative/anti-mitotic agents (such aspaclitaxel, 5-fluorouracil, cisplatin, vinblastine, vincristine,epothilones, endostatin, angiostatin and thymidine kinase inhibitors);anesthetic agents (such as lidocaine, bupivacaine, and ropivacaine);anti-coagulants (such as D-Phe-Pro-Arg chloromethyl keton, an RGDpeptide-containing compound, heparin, anti-thrombin compounds, plateletreceptor antagonists, anti-thrombin antibodies, anti-platelet receptorantibodies, aspirin, prostaglandin inhibitors, platelet inhibitors, andtick antiplatelet peptides); vascular cell growth promoters (such asgrowth factor inhibitors, growth factor receptor antagonists,transcriptional activators, and translational promoters); vascular cellgrowth inhibitors (such as growth factor inhibitors, growth factorreceptor antagonists, transcriptional repressors, translationalrepressors, replication inhibitors, inhibitory antibodies, antibodiesdirected against growth factors, bifunctional molecules consisting of agrowth factor and a cytotoxin, bifunctional molecules consisting of anantibody and a cytotoxin); cholesterol-lowering agents; vasodilatingagents; and agents which interfere with endogenous vasoactivemechanisms.

It should be understood that this disclosure is, in many respects, onlyillustrative. Changes may be made in details, particularly in matters ofshape, size, and arrangement of steps without exceeding the scope of theinvention. This may include, to the extent that it is appropriate, theuse of any of the features of one example embodiment being used in otherembodiments. The invention's scope is, of course, defined in thelanguage in which the appended claims are expressed.

What is claimed is:
 1. An endoprosthesis, comprising: an expandableframework including an anchoring portion and a body portion extendingaxially from the anchoring portion, the body portion having a pluralityof body cells; and a polymeric cover disposed on at least a portion ofthe expandable framework; wherein the anchoring portion includes a firsttransverse flange and a second transverse flange proximate the firsttransverse flange, the first and second transverse flanges beingconfigured to secure the anchoring portion at an orifice of a bodylumen; wherein the body portion includes a window through a side of thebody portion, the window occupying space equivalent to at least two ofthe plurality of body cells; wherein the window is devoid of thepolymeric cover and any other structure within a perimeter of thewindow.
 2. The endoprosthesis of claim 1, wherein the first transverseflange and the second transverse flange are axially spaced apart.
 3. Theendoprosthesis of claim 1, wherein the body portion is braided or woven.4. The endoprosthesis of claim 3, wherein the body portion includes oneor more filaments interwoven around a central longitudinal axis of theexpandable framework.
 5. The endoprosthesis of claim 4, wherein thewindow is formed by removing at least a portion of the one or morefilaments.
 6. The endoprosthesis of claim 4, wherein the perimeter ofthe window is at least partially defined by a plurality of welds joiningthe one or more filaments together.
 7. The endoprosthesis of claim 1,wherein the window is positioned adjacent the anchoring portion.
 8. Theendoprosthesis of claim 1, wherein the body portion is configured todilate the body lumen.
 9. The endoprosthesis of claim 8, wherein a firstbody portion opposite the window relative to a central longitudinal axisof the expandable framework is configured to exert less radially outwardforce on the body lumen than a second body portion opposite theanchoring portion relative to the window.
 10. An endoprosthesis formaintaining patency of a body lumen, comprising: an expandable frameworkincluding an anchoring portion, a body portion having a plurality ofbody cells, and a linking portion extending axially from the anchoringportion to the body portion; and a polymeric cover disposed on at leasta portion of the expandable framework; wherein the anchoring portionincludes a first transverse flange and a second transverse flangeproximate the first transverse flange, the first and second transverseflanges being configured to secure the anchoring portion at an orificeof a body lumen; wherein the linking portion includes a plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts spacing the body portion from theanchoring portion, the linking portion being devoid of the polymericcover.
 11. The endoprosthesis of claim 10, wherein the body portion iscoaxial with the anchoring portion.
 12. The endoprosthesis of claim 10,wherein the plurality of longitudinally-oriented struts is parallel to acentral longitudinal axis of the expandable framework.
 13. Theendoprosthesis of claim 10, wherein the plurality oflongitudinally-oriented struts is axially longer than the anchoringportion.
 14. The endoprosthesis of claim 10, wherein the body portionincludes a flared end opposite the anchoring portion.
 15. Theendoprosthesis of claim 10, wherein the expandable framework furtherincludes a tapered flange extending axially away from the anchoringportion and radially outward from the linking portion.
 16. Anendoprosthesis for maintaining patency of a vessel lumen, comprising: anexpandable framework including a first braided portion, a second braidedportion, and a linking portion extending axially from the first braidedportion to the second braided portion; and a polymeric cover disposed onat least a portion of the expandable framework; wherein the linkingportion includes a plurality of longitudinally-extending struts spacingthe first braided portion from the second braided portion, the linkingportion being devoid of the polymeric cover.
 17. The endoprosthesis ofclaim 16, wherein when deployed, the linking portion exerts lessradially outward force upon the vessel lumen than the first braidedportion and the second braided portion.
 18. The endoprosthesis of claim16, wherein the plurality of longitudinally-extending struts is angledinward toward a central longitudinal axis of the expandable frameworkbetween the first braided portion and the second braided portion. 19.The endoprosthesis of claim 16, wherein each of the plurality oflongitudinally-extending struts includes a coiled portion extendingbetween the first braided portion and the second braided portion. 20.The endoprosthesis of claim 19, wherein an axial length of the linkingportion is variable.